There are 6 simple steps you can take to help protect your home computer and allow you to browse the internet more safely.
Step 1. Beware of spoof emails
You may have heard recently in the news that, across the financial services industry, certain unknown individuals are sending fabricated (or "spoof") emails to random email addresses in an attempt to obtain (or "phish" for) personal details.
The spoof email may link to a website which looks very similar to a Standard Life website but in fact, is a near replica (or "spoof" website) which may ask for credit card or Internet security and email contact details.
Please be aware that Standard Life will never send out emails to existing customers that ask for security details or other confidential information from you. When accessing our online facility, please ensure you login through this website.
If you receive an email that looks as if it has been sent from Standard Life requesting your Internet security or other confidential details, please do not respond to this or visit any site which the email may link to.
Please forward the email to us and delete it.
Step 2. Install patches and security updates
Software companies frequently issue updates (known as a patch) to address security problems discovered in internet browsers and operating systems. You should keep your computer up to date with these by visiting the supplier's website or using update features installed within your existing software.
Step 3. Install anti-virus protection and keep it up to date
Anti-virus software has developed and improved significantly over the last few years to address the increasing threats to your computer from computer viruses. As new viruses appear, anti-virus firms update their solutions to stop them. You should ensure you have anti-virus software installed on your computer and that you are running the most up to date version.
Step 4. Install a personal firewall
A firewall can protect your computer from unauthorised access when using the internet. You should ensure you have a firewall installed and activated.
Step 5. Detect and remove spyware and adware
These are hidden programs that contain malicious code that can record details of your internet activity. You should make sure you are able to detect and remove any of these programs using anti-virus software and other commercially available products.
Step 6. Raise your awareness on safer home computing
The following websites provide further information on safer home computing:
